Navajo Nation Forms Green Jobs Commission

The Navajo Nation Council recognizes they need to diversify their economy and address profound joblessness. Green jobs look promising.

High Country News reports:

“The Council passed the legislation by a vote of 62 to 1. According to Enei Begaye, who spearheaded a coalition to create the legislation, it is the first tribal government initiative to create green jobs policy and structure. Undoubtedly ambitious — combining traditional culture, web-based marketing and cutting-edge green technologies — the plan could transform the Navajo Nation and serve as a model for other tribes.The legislation will establish a commission to implement projects in seven areas: renewable energy (large-scale and small), green manufacturing (focused on traditional crafts such as rug-weaving, combined with sophisticated marketing and PR campaigns), sustainable agriculture, weatherizing and making energy-efficient traditional and nontraditional homes, green workforce training, management training, and a small business initiative.”